updated 04:25 pm EDT, Wed September 27, 2006

UniBrain iZak

LaCie previously released its Silverscreen media hard drive as a simple way of playing a computer's stored music and video without needing a second system or a transmitter. While useful, the Silverscreen is largely a static device whose controls and format support won't change. UniBrain believes its iZak is a more flexible option. In addition to shipping with storage options ranging from 40GB to 120GB, the iZak gives owners the option of customizing the on-screen interface for playing their media: they can edit the images and fonts to reflect their tastes. UniBrain has similarly expanded video support beyond LaCie's offering to allow DivX video-on-demand rentals to work on the new hard drive just by copying a registration file. The iZak can be loaded with music (including unprotected AAC), photos, and videos from either Macs or Windows PCs and starts at $229 for a 40GB version.